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Tactical Comms for Idiots #1: $30 Baofeng Edition (non-encrypted small team comms) (www.youtube.com)

submitted 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago) by PirateFrog to c/[email protected]

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[–] [email protected] 2 points 2 weeks ago (2 children)

Would recommend getting a ham license if you're going to use these. There are flashcard apps that can run you through the tests. Morse code isn't required anymore. Not hard to pass.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago)

Second this. Hamstudy app is great. Takes a little work but really is not hard, then you can do things properly.

Or just pay the $35 and get a GMRS license and skip the Baofengs, find some cheap Radiooddity or etc. Part 95 radios and you still get to use repeaters that are pretty common.

[–] PirateFrog 1 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago)

For others reading, be aware that acquiring a HAM license will assign you a callsign that, if looked up on the FCC website, reveals your full name and home address unless you take measures to avoid that, such as getting a PO Box.

If you only plan on using a HAM radio during times of emergency, such as the type indicated in the video, obtaining the license is more of a formality than a necessity. Though learning how to use HAM radio, and which frequencies to avoid, would be fruitful either way.

Unless you are being a jerk on the airwaves, or are actively jamming a HAM frequency, the FCC will not bother to ensure you are licensed, for HAM or GMRS.

Most repeater stations are sticklers for rules though, so you'll likely need a callsign to be able to use them.